When you travel to Lingang New City in the Pudong New Area district of Shanghai, China, you will discover the Shanghai Astronomy Museum, also known as the Shanghai Planetarium. Opened in 2021 as part of the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum, this remarkable destination holds the title of the world's largest planetarium in terms of building scale. Its impressive main dome covers 38,000 square meters, offering a vast space designed for both education and entertainment.
As you explore the site, you will notice a striking architectural form crafted by New York City based Ennead Architects. The building is unique because it features absolutely no straight lines or right angles. Instead, its design is created to reflect the distinct shapes, movement, and geometry of the universe itself.
According to Ennead Architects design partner Thomas J Wong, the foundational design concept abstractly embodies within the architecture some of the fundamental laws of astrophysics that rule in space. Whether you are eager to learn about cosmic laws or simply want to experience a world-record-holding structure that mirrors the galaxy, visiting this unique planetarium provides a captivating journey through space-inspired architecture and science education.
What to see at Shanghai Planetarium
- World's largest planetarium by building scale, featuring a dome covering 38,000 square meters
- Unique architecture containing no straight lines or right angles
- Design reflecting the shapes, movement, and geometry of the universe
- Designed by New York City based Ennead Architects and design partner Thomas J Wong
Visiting tips
Take time to observe the building's unusual shape, as its curved architecture is specifically designed to embody the laws of astrophysics.
How long: A few hours · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Shanghai Planetarium is easy to reach on Shanghai’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Shanghai Grand Theatre and Xiaotaoyuan Mosque. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Shanghai travel guide.
See the full Shanghai travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.